eep, his muscles aching from the previous day's exertions. The effort of rekindling his cultivation had left him drai

g read: "Eat well. You'll need your strength." The simple gesture brought a flicker of warmth to his otherwise cold hea

ll far from its peak. Every movement reminded him of the damage done to his meri

s pain was nothing compared to the battles he had endured

hatter filling the air as they prepared for their daily routines. Their energy was palpable, a sharp contrast to the hollow emptines

s filled with scrolls and tomes chronicling centuries of cultivation knowledge. To Makoto, it

ough he possessed unparalleled knowledge from his past life, he required something that aligned

lar among outer disciples for its simplicity and reliability in stabilizing qi. To most, it would be little more than a

ompared its principles to the methods of his previous life. The techniques were rudiment

, its owner carefully observing him. Without raising his head, Makoto allowed his senses to expand, identifying the sourc

't you?" the man ask

, dark hair neatly tied back, and an air of confidence that bor

about you. Word travels fast when someone survive

t a flicker of annoyance crossed his min

y. "Curiosity, most

o echoed, his tone

where you are-broken, forgotten," Riku said. "You've drawn t

ceit. But the man's expression was unreadable. Finally, Riku turne

ed with activity as disciples sparred, meditated, and practiced their techniques.

cticing a low-level technique. But beneath the surface, Makoto was weaving ancient principles into his practice. Each

meridians throbbed with pain. But Makoto pressed on, each movement bringing him closer to recovery. He co

iku, his piercing gaze fixed on Makoto's every move. Makoto ignored the onlookers,

of amusement. "For someone who was supposed to

iku's gaze with calm determinati

You're an interesting one, Makoto. But remember, t

unflinching. "Let them co

see. Just don't let your ambition blind you." With that,

Makoto returned to his room. He sat cross-legged on the floor, closing his eyes to medi

though still weak, was beginning to remember the strength it once held. He could feel the

's politics, Kaizen's schemes, and Ryo's betrayal-they were mere obstacles on t

only the